General Info
Overview
The Northside Lions is a homeschool basketball club on Indianapolis’ north side, competing in the NHBA (National Homeschool Basketball Association). We have both Girls and Boys programs from 10U through Varsity.
Our Mission
To train homeschool athletes to glorify Christ while pursuing athletic excellence.
Core Values
Glorify Christ
Honor Family
Pursue Excellence
Vision
Provide homeschool athletes the opportunity to develop their faith both on and off the court.
Lead our state, conference, and NCHBC region in athletic excellence and Christ-like character.
Develop basketball teams that contend for national titles and provide a platform to produce collegiate-caliber athletes.
Eligibility
We follow eligibility guidlines of the NCHC (National Christian Homeschool Championship). "Homeschooling" is defined by NCHC Member Organization that a student's education is parent-directed and done at home. Additional details can be found on the NCHC eligibility page.
Age Requirements
A player's age group is determined by his/her age on August 1 of the current school year. For example, a player who is 16 on July 31 with a August 1 birthday would be considered eligible to play in the 16U age group at NCHC events.
Players are eligible to play up in a higher age group if desired. Age groups offered are 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, and 18U.
Players are only eligible to play in the gender division that the player was born, as recorded on their original birth certificate. There are no co-ed teams at Nationals or other NCHC postseason events.
Conference
We are part of the Midwest Christian Homeschool Conference. This includes 1 guaranteed game against each conference school at the Varsity level. Teams participating in the 2022-2023 season include:
Cincinnati Trailblazers (Cincinnati, OH)
Indianapolis Wildcats (Indianapolis, IN)
Illinois CRU (Big Rock, IL)
Monee Patriots (Chicago, IL)
Northside Lions (Indianapolis, IN)
Northwest Warriors (Indianapolis, IN)
Past teams include:
Hoop Heaven Angels (Grand Rapids, MI)
Miami Valley Saints (Greater Dayton, OH)
SWCHA Saints (Milwaukee, WI)
Game Info
Game Length
10U, 12U, 14U - 6 minute quarters with 4 minute halftime and 3 minute overtime
16U - 7 minute quarters with 4 minute halftime and 3 minute overtime
18U - 8 minute quarters with 4 minute half time and 4 minute overtime
Basketball Size
Boys 12U-18U use a standard size boys basketball
Boys 10U and all girls levels use 28.5 size basketball
Game Rules
Standard high school rules apply to most games. Some variations for younger age groups include no pressing and a running clock after a high point lead from one team.
Handbook
We have compiled a handbook for the 2023-2024 season to set expectations and answer questions for our Lions families. Download and review the handbook here:
2023-2024 Lions Parent Handbook